The Tesla Model 3 has wooed EV fans with its elegance, bagged several awards, and is one of the most popular electric vehicles on the market. But, it’s not perfect. Questionable build quality has plagued the car’s early years, as have reliability issues. But Tesla has addressed them, and newer models have improved.
Key Points
- Tesla Model 3’s early years have questionable reliability. Closely inspect model years 2017, 2018, and 2019 when you’re shopping for a used Model 3 EV.
- Problems with autopilot and emergency brakes activating are not uncommon throughout all years. Electrical glitches and structural issues have also been reported.
- Later years like 2020 and 2021 are less buggy and have slightly improved build quality. The 2020 Model 3 even won a Top Safety Pick+ award by the IIHS.
- Used Model 3s are expensive and fairly difficult to source. Although some years are problematic, there’s no denying how fantastic an EV the Model 3 is.
Tesla Model 3’s Early Years Come with Unintended Acceleration, Suspension Problems, and Several Reliability Issues
If you’re looking for a used Tesla Model 3, try avoiding years 2017, 2018, and 2019. Earlier versions of the Model 3 have build quality issues, and several complaints are available on record. Even though the cars are basically the same, interim changes in parts suppliers and production techniques have either made an improvement or brought in another problem.
Autopilot has Quite a Bad Reputation in 2017-2019 Tesla Model 3s
Tesla’s autopilot has garnered several complaints. Multiple investigations have been opened against this, per the NHTSA. Owners complain about unintended acceleration and braking, posing a serious threat to themselves and other motorists.
What Tesla owners call “Phantom Braking,” the issue leads the car to inadvertently apply the brakes. Apparently, the autopilot system has difficulties recognizing things like traffic cones, and vehicle safety flashers in low-light conditions.
Also, a software glitch sends false signals to the forward-collision warning and automatic emergency braking system, causing them to activate. A recall is available, and Tesla is offering over-the-air updates.
Structural Issues, like Loose Suspension Links, are Common Among All Model 3s
Per the NHTSA, the Model 3’s front suspension lateral link fasteners may get loose and separate from the subframe. If not dealt with, this could risk the driver losing control over the vehicle and potentially leading to an accident.
A similar story plagues the Model 3’s brake caliper bolts. Improperly tightened during manufacturing, this leads to the caliper separating and coming into contact with the wheel rim, possibly crashing the vehicle.
According to the NHTSA, multiple recalls have been issued against these problems.
Additional Model 3 Problems Include Faulty Seat Belts, Malfunctioning Airbags
Some Model 3s might have the front seat belt assembly improperly fastened to the B-pillars. This may detach and cause injury in the event of an accident. Also, the left and right side curtain airbag may have been improperly secured to the roof rail, which can result in the airbag deploying incorrectly.
Many Model 3 owners have expressed their concern with the new Version II software update. Apparently, this update adds a layer of inconvenience in operating some of the basic cabin functions like changing the music, aircon adjustments, etc.
Certain Model 3s have a faulty backup camera. The NHTSA finds the cause to be the camera’s wiring harness. It gets damaged after repeated opening and closing of the rear trunk lid. A recall fixes this by replacing the wiring and installing a protector.
Tesla Model 3’s Later Years are Less Buggy and Offer Better Build Quality
Most Teslas have below-average reliability ratings, and the Model 3 isn’t any different. Per Consumer Reports, most model years have only scored average. However, models from 2020 and 2021 are relatively less problematic and have most of the known issues sorted.
2020 Tesla Model 3 Offers Impressive Range and Decent Reliability
With impressive 0-60 figures and a range of 322 miles, the Model 3 is quite an exciting EV. The 2020 model year has decent reliability and scored five-star safety ratings in every category and subcategory by the NHTSA. Also, the Model 3 received the IIHS Top Safety Pick+ award, with top ratings in all crashworthiness and front crash prevention tests.
The 2020 Model 3 has relatively fewer complaints registered, per the NHTSA. That said, there are six recalls, and most of the issues are carried over from the previous model years. While the electronic glitches have been fixed with over-the-air updates, structural problems like suspension and brakes are still present.
2021 Tesla Model 3 Gets Subtle Changes and Improved Range
The 2021 Model 3 gets a slight refresh with a new headlight design and improved efficiency. Bugs and glitches have come down, and build quality has improved. Driving range has gone up from 322 to 353 miles in the Long Range version. And, there is a difference in the headlight beam pattern, offering a wider spread when cornering.
Per the NHTSA, the 2021 Model 3 has fewer recalls versus 2020. But, the suspension recall and emergency brake issues still exist, which is worrying.
Although Reliability can be Questionable, the Model 3 is Still a Fantastic EV
The Tesla Model 3 has positive feedback overall. Most owners are happy with their purchase and don’t want to part ways with the car. Probably why used Model 3s are expensive and fairly difficult to source.
However, certain quality issues plague the otherwise well-engineered EV. Panel gaps are not uncommon, as are flimsy bits of plastics that rattle and fall apart.
But there’s no denying how fantastic an EV the Model 3 is. It offers exceptional range along with oodles of performance. As mentioned, if you’re in the market, look for later examples. And as always, have a mechanic inspect the car for chassis and structural damages before going ahead.
Photos: Tesla
